Quick Details
Embark on the scenic Ride Through the Famous Hiwassee Loop and delight in a 50-mile roundtrip journey through the stunning lower Hiwassee River gorge. Our excursion commences at 1:30 p.m. and concludes around 5:30 p.m., encompassing a 5-hour adventure that will take you to the apex of the renowned Hiwassee Loop. Witness this incredible railway marvel near Farner, Tennessee, where the tracks intriguingly cross over themselves as they spiral up the mountain. Notably, there are only six such loops in North America, with this one being the sole example east of the Mississippi River. Please note that there is no layover on this trip; passengers will enjoy the entire duration on the train.
The railroad over which Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum trains travel on its Hiwassee River Scenic Railroad was formerly part of the Louisville and Nashville Railroad’s Atlanta Division stretching between Etowah, Tennessee, and Marietta, Georgia.
IMPORTANT: Ticket prices vary for the Fall Premium dates, which occur in October through the first two weeks of November.
Passengers switch sides at our midway point from the mountain side to the river side and vise versa so everyone has an opportunity to experience all scenic views.
Come and experience the unparalleled 360 degree views of our upper level dome.
Come and experience the unparalleled 360 degree views of our upper level dome.
The observation car is a type of passenger coach, often found at the rear and thus with windows for viewing. This form was nearly universally removed from service on American railroads beginning in 1950’s but some still exist today!
This train departs from Delano (9406 hwy 411, Delano, TN 37325) and NOT from Chattanooga. Departure from Delano is 1:30 p.m., return is approximately 6:30-6:45 p.m.
The Hiwassee Loop Location is about between 51 minutes and 2 hours from Chattanooga, and it’s well worth the drive. Please give yourself enough time before our departure. It is the perfect place to spend a day if you’re looking for something fun and unique to do. The local police are on the lookout for speeders, so be sure to stay under their posted speed limits if you want to avoid getting a ticket.
Train Ride Route Map for Hiwassee Loop and Copperhill Special
Special educational rates are available for the Hiwassee Loop excursion. Click here to learn more.
Hiwassee Loop
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We had such a wonderful time riding the Hiwassee Loop, the crew was so personal and engaging and made the trip so informative and enjoyable. I highly recommend taking this trip or any trip the TVR offers, you won’t be disappointed!
– Google ReviewWe road on the Hiwassee loop train out of Delano. It was a great experience. The volunteers and staff are all very pleasant and knowledgeable. The trip back with the banjo playing and singing was the cherry on top of a perfect day...... We didn't get to the museum in Chattanooga yet but we hope we can soon .....thank you and keep up the great work of preserving history
– Google ReviewWhat a wonderful experience. We wanted to see the changing of the leaves and we were not disappointed. The scenery was like traveling through a Monet painting. The train trip was quite an adventure. We spotted a bald eagle that flew along beside the train for a short distance. The commentator was excellent. We heard all the history about the area and the building of the train tracks. Most of us brought picnic lunches since the trip was 5 1/2 hours long, round trip, non stop. The commissary car did sell limited food items and souvenirs. We had some musical entertainment about half way through the trip which was fun. I recommend this trip regardless of the time of year. The train company offers a variety of excursions with different themes, times and travel lengths. Put this one on your Bucket List for sure.
– TripAdvisorPeaceful ride on a dreary day through the beautiful scenery along the Hiwassee River Gorge. Choose to upgrade for dome view (1st class), very nice with complimentary snacks and beverages along the way. Our car hostess, LouAnne, was very cordial and gave some history behind the trains. Narration along the way was both informative and light hearted. 2 hour layover in McCaysville, GA allowed time for lunch and some shopping.
– TripAdvisorEmbark on the Copperhill Train Ride, an extensive 94-mile round trip journey traversing the lower Hiwassee River Gorge and the unique Hiwassee Loop, culminating in the paired cities of Copperhill, Tennessee, and McCaysville, Georgia. Enjoy a self-paced lunch during a 90-minute layover, making your day-long adventure a memorable one.
Embark on a journey aboard our historic short-line locomotive! Our most regularly scheduled voyages, fondly known as “The Local,” initiate from our distinguished Grand Junction Station, heading towards East Chattanooga. Here, you’ll enjoy a stopover featuring an intriguing demonstration of a classic turntable, followed by a tour of our workshop.
Enjoy a picturesque round-trip train ride through the Hiwassee River Gorge this holiday season! Write a letter and meet Santa and enjoy a delicious gingerbread cookie and chocolate milk on the train!
